Children, even more than adults, need to relax, un-wind and play.  What I wish to emphasize here is that although most children already play, there are different forms of play.  Left to themselves, children will engage in creative self play.  This type of play is wonderful for the imagination and to develop character, but children need structured and interactive play, as well.  Most children get structured play in day care or preschool environments, but the interaction may be limited due to teachers or staff working with several children at one time.  This is where families and hobbies can really make a difference.  Hobbies are great as interactive play and they allow you fun time with your children.

Besides being a way for you to interact with your children in a fun activity, hobbies offer other benefits.  Hobbies can increase hand eye coordination and improve manual dexterity.  It is also believed that children who engage in hobbies have greater self-confidence, achieve better grades in school, are more socially connected and have more positive family relationships.

Teens need to relax and un-wind, too.  Teens today have more hectic lifestyles and social pressure than most of us realize.  One article I read recently suggested that teens today need the time management skills of a Fortune 500 CEO.  The question is, if teens are so busy, how are they to add something else to the mix?  I think the better question is, how long will your teen last without having some form of relaxation or escape?  Yes, it may be difficult to devote time to their hobby, but once the benefits start kicking in, they will make sure to find time for their chosen leisure activity.

Besides the benefits listed above for children, teens benefit from hobbies by being less likely to get involved in drugs, alcohol or premarital sex.  They also are better able to deal with stress, peer pressure and they could be learning transferrable skills in a fun new way.